Dating back to the Roman Period, Souq Al-Harir is one of the oldest markets in Damascus Old City.

It was renovated by the Ottoman governor of Damascus Darwish Pasha in the second half of the 16th century.

The market acquired its current name “Al-Harir”, meaning “Silk” in Arabic, from its specialisation in silk garments and various other oriental fabrics.

Roman remains can be still seen today lining the borders of this ancient market.